A Photographer’s Lens on Ligligan Parul 2018

A Paradise of Light and Color

City of San Fernando, Pampanga, transformed into a photographer’s paradise during the Ligligan Parul 2018. The 110th anniversary of this iconic festival promised an extraordinary spectacle, and it certainly delivered. As a photographer, I found myself immersed in a world of color, light, and awe-inspiring artistry.

Capturing the Grandeur

Each giant lantern was a masterpiece, a colossal canvas illuminated by thousands of bulbs. I spent hours capturing the intricate details of their designs – from the traditional parols with their star-like patterns to the more contemporary pieces that pushed the boundaries of imagination. The challenge was to capture the sheer scale of these creations, while also preserving the delicate beauty of their intricate work.

A Night of Sensory Overload

The night the lanterns were lit was a sensory overload. The sky was painted with hues of red, gold, and blue as the giant structures came to life. The crowd’s energy was palpable, a symphony of gasps, cheers, and the rhythmic click of cameras. As a photographer, I had to balance the desire to capture the overall ambiance with the need to isolate specific moments of magic.

Beyond the Lanterns

Beyond the lanterns, the festival offered a rich tapestry of visual stories. The faces of the lantern makers, etched with pride and exhaustion, were as compelling as the finished products. The city itself, adorned with festive lights, provided a stunning backdrop for my photographs.

Capturing a Piece of Pampanga’s Soul

Ligligan Parul 2018 was more than just a festival; it was a photographic expedition. It was about capturing the essence of a tradition, the skill of artisans, and the collective joy of a community. As I reviewed my images, I realized that I had not just documented an event, but had also captured a piece of Pampanga’s soul.